The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Hospitalman Apprentice First Class Walter R. Anderson (NSN: 6477071), United States Naval Reserve, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action as a Company Corpsman attached to a Marine Rifle Company in action against the enemy on Saipan and Tinian, Mariana Islands. His courageous and cool conduct under fire, while showing little regard for his personal safety, merits highest praise. Hospital Apprentice First Class Anderson repeatedly volunteered for special patrols on hazardous missions day and night. His untiring work contributed to the saving of many lives. Although he was wounded on 17 June, he left the hospital, returned to his platoon and performed his tasks as fearlessly as ever. On 16 – 17 June, while under fire, he rushed to the aid of wounded comrades in several platoons besides his own and on several occasions aided in caring for wounded in an adjacent battalion and directly contributed to the saving of many lives. His courage and conduct throughout were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.